Urolithiasis in Saudi Arabia

Area of Science:

• Urology
• Nephrology
• Epidemiology

Background:

• Urolithiasis is a significant health concern globally.
• Understanding the epidemiological and metabolic profiles of kidney stone patients is crucial for effective management.
• Saudi Arabia presents unique demographic and environmental factors that may influence stone formation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To conduct an epidemiological and metabolic assessment of urolithiasis patients in Saudi Arabia.
• To identify the common types of kidney stones and their locations.
• To investigate potential risk factors and metabolic abnormalities associated with stone formation.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective analysis of 760 Saudi patients diagnosed with urolithiasis.
• Data collection included patient demographics, stone location, surgical procedures, and metabolic workup.
• Stone analysis was performed to determine chemical composition.

Main Results:

• The majority of patients (87%) were aged 30-60 years, with a male to female ratio of 5:1.
• Renal calculi accounted for 69% of stones, followed by ureteric (29%).
• Calcium oxalate stones were the most prevalent type (76%), followed by urate stones (20.5%).
• Hypercalciuria was observed in 9% of patients, while 60% showed increased urinary urate excretion.
• Urinary schistosomiasis was present in 4.3% of patients, primarily from endemic areas.

Conclusions:

• Urolithiasis in Saudi Arabia predominantly affects middle-aged males, with calcium oxalate stones being the most common type.
• Metabolic abnormalities like hypercalciuria and increased urinary urate excretion are present in a significant proportion of patients.
• While infection and urinary schistosomiasis are less common, they remain relevant etiological factors in specific populations.